Kyoto National Museum

Photo provided by City of Kyoto and Kyoto Tourism Council
Photo "Kyoto National Museum" by Yoshio Kohara (CC BY) / Cropped from original


As one of the principal museums of Japan, this site displays fascinating artifacts across impressive structures to tell the story of Kyoto’s place in the country.

The Kyoto National Museum endeavours to showcase the best of Japanese art and history. The museum, which was founded in 1897, uses the displays to teach visitors about Kyoto before and after its inception as the capital city. The complex is one of the national museums of Japan. Its collections of more than 12,000 items are spread across several impressive buildings. With a café, tearoom and store, tourists can spend a pleasant afternoon around the site’s grounds.

Enter through the Main Gate and its dome spires. From here, admire the redbrick Special Exhibition Hall with a backdrop of green, rolling mountains. There are elaborate fountains in the foreground. Browse the building’s galleries and temporary displays in dimly lit settings. Learn about the displays through their descriptions in English. Find exhibitions on many topics, from sculptures, music and other artwork to temples and historic artifacts. The demonstrations vary throughout the year.

Quench your thirst at the traditional Japanese teahouse, Tan’an, in the East Garden. Make your way to Café Karafuneya for rest and some food. Peruse the museum store to find souvenirs such as books, postcards and other informative items.

Exhibitions are closed on Mondays but stay open later on Fridays. Otherwise, viewings commence in the morning and conclude late in the afternoon. Admission fees vary depending on particular exhibitions.

You can find the Kyoto National Museum right next to the Sanjūsangen-dō Temple and the Toyokuni Shrine in the Higashiyama Ward. Take a bus from Kyoto Station. Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae bus stop is just 1 minute on foot from the museum. The site is a short walk from Shichijo Station, which is on the Keihan Railroad. If you drive to the museum, you can park in the lot for free for the first hour just be sure to present your parking ticket in the museum to receive the discount.

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Things to do near Kyoto National Museum

A visit to the Kyoto National Museum is a must for those intrigued by Japan's rich cultural heritage. The museum showcases an impressive collection of traditional Japanese art, ceramics, and historical artefacts, offering visitors captivating exhibitions that delve into the nation's history. Don't miss the chance to explore the beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the museum, providing a serene backdrop to your cultural experience.

Shopping

Kawaramachi Street, located 805m from the museum, offers a vibrant shopping atmosphere with a mix of business and family vibes. Nishiki Market, 1.6km away, is perfect for local delicacies, while Pontocho Alley, also 1.6km distant, provides entertainment alongside shopping.

Recreation

Nestled near Kyoto National Museum, Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium offers invigorating sports activities. For a soothing experience, Funaoka Thermal Bath provides relaxation and rejuvenation. Meanwhile, Kyoto Kaikan Concert Hall hosts captivating musical performances, blending wellness with entertainment, all within a short distance from the museum.

Adventure

Embark on the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Pilgrimage Circuit, a scenic hiking trail located 3.2km from the museum. Experience the thrill of skiing at Biwako Valley Ski Resort, 27.4km away, or take a family-friendly ride on the Mt. Otokoyama Cable Car, situated 12.9km from the museum.

Nightlife

In Kyoto, Gion Corner offers a delightful theatre experience, just 1.3km from the museum, perfect for cultural entertainment. The Kyoto Municipal Science Center for Youth, 3.2km away, features an engaging planetarium, while Omiyakotsu Park, 8.0km distant, provides thrilling arcade adventures.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Kyoto National Museum

Exploring the Kyoto National Museum offers a delightful mix of cultural and family-friendly experiences. Within and around the museum, visitors can discover stunning temples, serene shrines, and charming streets, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Kyoto. This area promises a captivating blend of tradition and modernity that will leave a lasting impression on every traveller.

  • Kiyomizu Temple: Nestled in the hills, Kiyomizu Temple offers stunning views of Kyoto and is renowned for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases exquisite architecture and tranquil surroundings, immersing visitors in Japan's rich cultural heritage.
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Shrine is a striking example of Shinto spirituality. Wander through the winding trails that lead up the sacred Mount Inari, experiencing the serene atmosphere and breathtaking landscapes.
  • Kyoto Tower: Standing tall in the city skyline, Kyoto Tower offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. The modern design contrasts beautifully with traditional Kyoto, making it a perfect spot for capturing stunning photographs and enjoying a unique city vibe.

Best time to go to Kyoto National Museum

The best time to visit Kyoto National Museum can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Kyoto National Museum falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Kyoto National Museum falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July77.9°F (25.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
November52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
December42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kyoto National Museum

To save on your visit to the Kyoto National Museum, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February and September when accommodation prices drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield better rates, particularly on Tuesdays, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Explore last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Utilise their search tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities into a package for further discounts. Additionally, keep an eye out for hidden fees to maximise your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kyoto National Museum are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Kyoto National Museum is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kyoto National Museum is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Kyoto National Museum is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel stay at the Kyoto National Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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